How to write a Waiter job description

Your job description is the first touchpoint between your company and your new hire. With millions of people searching for jobs on Indeed each month, a great job description can help you attract the most qualified candidates to your open position. To get you started, here are some tips for creating an effective job description.

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Waiter job title

A great job title typically includes a general term, level of experience and any special requirements. The general term will optimize your job title to show up in a general search for jobs of the same nature. The level of experience will help you attract the most qualified applicants by outlining the amount of responsibility and prior knowledge required. And if your position is specialized, consider including the specialization in the job title as well. But avoid using internal titles, abbreviations or acronyms to make sure people understand what your job posting is before clicking.

Examples of Waiter job titles

Waiter

Head Waiter

Waiter (5+ Years’ Experience)

Waiter (Part-Time)

Waitress

Server

Waiter job summary

A great job description starts with a compelling summary of the position and its role within your company. Your summary should provide an overview of your company and expectations for the position. Outline the types of activities and responsibilities required for the job so job seekers can determine if they are qualified, or if the job is a good fit.

Example of a Waiter job summary

Our casual dining restaurant is expanding into three new locations and we need experienced, motivated Waiters to join our team. If you have serving experience and enjoy working in a fast-paced environment with the potential for advancement, we want to talk to you. The successful candidate will be responsible for establishing friendly relationships with our patrons and ensuring they enjoy fast, pleasant service throughout their dining experiences. We’re looking for applicants with flexible schedules who don’t mind pitching in with other duties, such as greeting customers or tending bar, when needed.

Waiter responsibilities and duties

The responsibilities and duties section is the most important part of the job description. Here you should outline the functions this position will perform on a regular basis, how the job functions within the organization and who the job reports to.

Examples of Waiter responsibilities

Take customer orders and relay them to the kitchen staff

Facilitate the filling of drink orders between customers and the bar

Suggest additional menu items, such as desserts and drinks, when appropriate

Obtain amenities for patrons with specific needs, such as highchairs for parents

Operate the drink fountain and coffee station

Count down till at end of every shift

Memorize the menu for on-demand recitation

Waiter qualifications and skills

Next, outline the required and preferred skills for your position. This may include education, previous job experience, certifications and technical skills. You may also include soft skills and personality traits that you envision for a successful hire. While it may be tempting to include a long list of skills and requirements, including too many could dissuade qualified candidates from applying. Keep your list of qualifications concise, but provide enough detail with relevant keywords and terms.

Examples of Waiter skills

1+ years’ waitstaff experience preferred

High school diploma/GED preferred, but will consider current students

Willingness to work weekends, evenings and holidays as required

Ability to lift up to 25 lbs.

Familiarity with HostMe or other restaurant software highly desirable

Comfort with noisy, high-volume atmosphere

Capable of working well under pressure